K 2022 Wacker presents new silicone-based additive for polyethylene moulding compounds

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Munich-based chemical group Wacker will introduce an additive masterbatch for polyethylene compounding at the 22nd International Trade Fair for Plastics and Rubber. Marketed as Genioplast PE50S08, this silicone product makes it easier to manufacture ready-to-use polyethylene moulding compounds

At K 2022, Wacker will present a new silicone-based additive masterbatch for compounding polyethylene. Genioplast PE50S08 facilitates the manufacture of ready-to-use polyethylene molding compounds and improves the surface properties of the resulting plastic products.

With Genioplast PE50S08, the company is adding a product developed specifically for use in polyethylene molding compounds to its portfolio of silicone-based compounding additives. The additive masterbatch in pellet form is an active component that contains a non-reactive, ultra-high-molecular polydimethylsiloxane. The active ingredient’s carrier is a low-density polyethylene. The silicone content of the masterbatch is 50 percent.

Genioplast PE50S08 is used as a processing aid. Its silicone active ingredient improves filler distribution in filled formulations and the flow properties of the polymer melt. This increases extruder throughput. It also reduces the energy needed for compounding — a clear advantage for compounders.

Where mixtures of different polyethylene grades are compounded, as is the case in the processing of recycled polyethylene, Genioplast PE50S08 ensures uniform mixing without any major torque or temperature fluctuations. Thus, polyethylene recycling is one of the new additive’s key application areas.

In blown film extrusion, manufacturers of polyethylene film formulations can substantially boost productivity. In the extrusion of cable sheathing, hoses or profiles made of filled polyethylene, there are fewer die deposits.

Furthermore, Genioplast PE50S08 improves the surface structure of polyethylene products. The additive reduces the coefficient of kinematic and dynamic friction of the plastic formulation, giving it a surface that feels silky and dry. As a result of the reduced surface friction, the products feature higher scratch and abrasion resistance. This makes it easier to unroll films. The additive also improves the plastic’s impact strength in the final product.

Generally, the dosage of Genioplast PE50S08 is one to three percent. The product is easy to feed with a standard system and is readily incorporated into polyethylene mixtures on a twin-screw extruder even when mineral fillers are added.

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